Locations & Times

Reflection time: are you unintentionally contributing to a negative church perception? In our fourth and final week of the Upside Down series, Pastor Ben redefines the Kingdom of Heaven, breaking conventional expectations. Exploring the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12, Ben unveils the true essence of each characteristic in a Christ-centered life, exposing how the enemy distorts the genuine nature of living in the Kingdom of God. Ben calls us to self-reflection, warns against misinterpreting Christian values, and calls for repentance. The focus is on embracing countercultural qualities like meekness, mercy, and resilience, urging a collective mindset shift. He showcases our goal to embody the symbolic salt and light, attracting others to the transformative Kingdom of Heaven through authenticity.

SETLIST

"This Is Our God" By Phill Wickham, Available on "I Believe"

"Firm Foundation (He Won't)" By Maverick City Music 

"Same God" By Elevation Worship, Available on "LION"

"Run To The Father" By Carnes Music Group LLC, Sparrow Records, Available on "Run To The Father"

GROUP QUESTIONS

Upside-Down Kingdom

Ben Foote

 Jan 28th, 2024

// Bible References
Matt 4:17; 5:1-16; Psalm 37:11

// Community Question: What aspect of church, this group, or being a Christian has surprised you the most?

// Discussion Questions:

1. Read Matthew 5:3-12. The Upside-Down Kingdom's characteristics (beatitudes) go against the cultural expectations of our own preconceived notions. How does Jesus' description of his kingdom challenge our understanding of power, success, and righteousness? In what ways have you experienced or observed the Upside-Down nature of Jesus' kingdom? How can you commit to living according to his values?
2. Mourning refers to feeling deep sadness over our own brokenness. This awareness leads to recognizing our need for God's grace and forgiveness. What areas of your life have you experienced brokenness, and how have you seen God at work in those situations?
3. Pastor Ben clarifies that being 'poor in spirit' means understanding our spiritual helplessness and inability to save ourselves. Are there areas in your life where you feel spiritually helpless? How can you rely on God in those situations?
4. Read Psalm 37:11. Meekness refers to trusting God, so you don’t have to worry, fret, or get angry at the actions of other people. How could the fruits of being meek (gentle, courteous, considerate, and slow to anger) help us love others more? How might this approach help change our families, societies, schools, etc?
5. In the sermon, Ben shared the difference between being a peacemaker and a peacekeeper. A peacemaker brings wholeness to relationships and is willing to step into difficult situations. A peacekeeper avoids conflict rather than addressing issues. Are you more of a peacemaker or peacekeeper? How can you work towards becoming a peacemaker in your relationships?

// Challenge: Which previously discussed beatitude do you feel God is asking you to grow in this week?